Rural Health Clinic Upgrades Made Possible by Low-Cost Financing

The Montana Facility Finance Authority (MFFA) recently closed on a low-cost direct loan for the Phillips County Hospital in Malta. The $99,070 loan will allow the clinic to remodel its nurses’ station to improve patient privacy and increase work efficiency.

“At Phillips County Hospital we are greatly appreciative of the MFFA partnering with us on financing our nursing station remodel,” Phillips County Hospital CEO Ward VanWichen said. “Without our shared vision of improving our patient care and services along with the funding support, this project most likely would not come to fruition. They are great people to work with and are true partners in improving health care.

The remodel will include new carpeting, a digital phone system, updated furniture, and the installation of network cabling. The clinic, built in the 1970s, has never been substantially renovated. The current nursing station does not provide adequate patient privacy.

“With this remodel, the clinic nurses’ station will be upgraded to ensure confidentiality for the patients,” Montana Facility Finance Authority Executive Director Adam Gill said. “The loan will also help the hospital streamline processes that will shorten patient wait times and improve staff workflows.”

The MFFA Direct Loan Program provides rural nonprofit hospitals and other healthcare providers with access to low-cost capital financing up to $300,000.